Estate Stewards

02/19/2025

The implications of not having a will can leave your loved ones in a difficult transition after your passing. Having a will allows for your intentions to be carried out smoothly.

Reach out to us if you need any help and feel ressaured that you have all your estate planning needs in place! https://www.estatestewards.com/services/wills

02/12/2025

Choosing an executor is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. The role of an executor is to ensure that your wishes are carried out according to your will, making it essential to choose someone who is capable and trustworthy. Here are three key considerations when deciding who should act as your executor.

1. Age and Wellness of the Executor
2. Willingness to Serve
3. Knowledge and Competence

Watch this episode of Estate Q&A's with Akua to learn more - https://youtu.be/9VG5xan-7Po

For further support or advice, reach out to us, we're more than happy to help! https://www.estatestewards.com/services/executor-services

02/05/2025

When you consider estate planning there are two key factors that should be considered. If you need help in your estate planning or have any questions, Estate Stewards can help.

Complete the estate fitness assessment to get started. https://www.estatestewards.com/resources/estate-fitness-assessment

01/29/2025

Did you know that business owners in Ontario have unique estate planning needs? From primary and secondary wills to shareholder agreements, proper planning is essential for protecting your business and ensuring a smooth transition. Here are three key considerations:

1. Use Primary & Secondary Wills to minimize estate administration taxes.
2. Set up a Business-Specific Power of Attorney to plan for incapacity.
3. With multiple shareholders, ensure there is a Shareholders Agreement addressing the issues of death or incapacity.

Learn more through this episode of Estate Q&A's with Akua - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AEf6NIt7rA

At Estate Stewards, we help business owners navigate these complexities. Reach out today to safeguard your legacy. https://www.estatestewards.com/resources/estate-fitness-assessment

01/22/2025

Philanthropy can be a powerful way to leave a lasting impact on the causes you care about. Through estate planning, you can ensure your legacy supports the organizations and initiatives that matter most to you, even after you're gone.

Incorporating charitable giving into your estate plan not only benefits the community, but also solidifies your values for future generations. It's a meaningful way to be remembered and make a difference long-term.

At Estate Stewards, we help you craft an estate plan that aligns with your philanthropic goals.

Contact us today! https://www.estatestewards.com/contact-us

01/15/2025

We're excited to share that Akua Carmichael, lawyer, author, and VP of Estate & Planning Services at Estate Stewards Inc., was recently featured on the More Than Money podcast.

In her interview, Akua provides valuable insights into the important topic of granting power of attorney, including why adult children may not always be the ideal choice for this role.

If you're looking for expert advice on estate planning and how to make informed decisions for your future, this episode offers thoughtful guidance and practical considerations.

Listen to the full interview here - https://vimeo.com/showcase/11423205/video/1018089477

08/19/2024

In her interview with the Globe & Mail, Akua Carmichael, VP of Estate Planning, opens up about her family's financial journey & the difference professional advice can make. It's a reminder of how essential expert support is in making informed decisions.

‘My parents were very successful in their business but didn’t have good financial advice,” says Akua Carmichael, vice-president of estate planning and services at Estate Stewards Inc. in Toronto. ‘They could have done more with what they had if they had good advisors.’

06/19/2024

The number of couples living common law in Canada has increased over the years and has become increasingly common among young Canadians.

If you are in a common law relationship it is essential to consider your estate planning as the laws governing how assets will be distributed are not the same for married and unmarried couples, even those in common law relationships.

06/12/2024

Life is unpredictable. Have you considered who would make financial and healthcare decisions for you if you were unable to?

Planning for incapacity involves more than just a will.

Essential documents like powers of attorney and advance healthcare directives can ensure your wishes are honoured if you are unable to communicate.

If you would like to learn more about how you can protect your interests, schedule a meeting. https://www.estatestewards.com/contact-us

06/05/2024

Your life is constantly evolving, and your estate plan should reflect those changes.

Whether it's a new marriage, the birth of a child, or a change in financial circumstances, updating your estate plan is crucial to protecting your loved ones and assets.

Schedule a review today to ensure your plan is always in line with your wishes. https://www.estatestewards.com/contact-us

05/29/2024

Charitable giving is a powerful way to support causes close to your heart while leaving a lasting impact on the world. Let's explore how you can incorporate philanthropy into your estate plan.

05/22/2024

Financial planning and estate planning are two sides of the same coin and it is important to integrate the two.

A strong financial plan should consider estate planning as one of its central tenets, and at its core, a strong estate plan should be built around the financial plan.

This is because financial planning and estate planning have a lot in common: both look to identify goals and determine the feasibility of achieving them, while considering the best strategies to improve their likelihood of success.
https://www.allaboutestates.ca/when-a-financial-plan-meets-an-estate-plan/